Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Akko Penguin are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for users. The Aqua King (V3) is a linear switch known for its frictionless feel, akin to gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. This switch is perfect for those who value a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin is a tactile switch that boasts a rounded tactile bump, providing satisfying feedback with each key press. It is ideal for office environments where noise reduction is crucial, thanks to its quiet profile. While the Aqua King (V3) offers a creamy and polished feel, the Akko Penguin is described as muted and subtle. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on your preferences for typing experience and noise level. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Akko Penguin, it is clear that the Aqua King utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, while the Penguin features nylon for both components. The main difference between these materials lies in the sound profile they produce. Polycarbonate, being a stiff plastic, creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, ideal for those looking for a more crisp sound experience. On the other hand, nylon, being a softer plastic, produces a deeper and fuller sound, giving the typing experience a more rounded and muffled tone.
Another point of contrast between the Aqua King and the Penguin is the aesthetic appeal of their housing materials. Polycarbonate, due to its translucency, is perfect for switches that incorporate RGB lighting as it allows the light to shine through, creating a visually appealing effect. Meanwhile, nylon, being a classic switch housing material, offers a more traditional and solid look to the switch. While both materials have their own unique charms, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
However, despite these differences, it is important to note that both the Aqua King and the Penguin aim to enhance the typing experience with their housing materials. Whether it is the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate in the Aqua King or the deeper sound profile of nylon in the Penguin, both switches offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to individual preferences in sound profile, aesthetics, and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we find that both switches fall into the medium weight category. The Aqua King (V3) has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Penguin has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches provide a balanced typing experience with a satisfying tactile feedback. The Aqua King (V3) requires a slightly heavier force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Penguin, but the difference is minimal. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Penguin, as it has slightly lower actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and pressure sensitivity.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Aqua King has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Penguin, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the shorter 3.3 mm travel distance of the Penguin, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the 4 mm travel distance of the Aqua King. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, so ultimately the choice will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
The Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch offers a subdued sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound, ideal for environments where noise reduction is important. Both switches aim to minimize the typical mechanical keyboard noise, with the Aqua King offering a dampened sound and the Penguin providing a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Aqua King (V3) is known for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. The keys offer smooth and effortless typing, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. In contrast, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, providing a gentle typing experience with a light actuation force. Both switches offer a refined and smooth typing experience, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Overall, both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch excel in providing a high-quality typing experience. The Aqua King emphasizes a frictionless and polished feel, ideal for those seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience, while the Penguin offers a polished and mild feel, suitable for users looking for a gentle and comfortable typing experience. Whether you prefer a linear switch like the Aqua King or a tactile switch like the Penguin, both options offer a premium typing experience that is sure to enhance your overall keyboard usage.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider the following: if you value a typing experience that feels frictionless, smooth, and almost magical, the Aqua King (V3) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet typing environment with a balanced tactile feedback and moderate actuation force, the Akko Penguin switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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